Tariff fallout may stall Ryanair’s Boeing deliveries
April 17, 2025
Ryanair’s outspoken CEO Michael O’Leary has suggested that the airline may postpone delivery of its incoming Boeing aircraft, a move that could disrupt production schedules and strain manufacturer-airline relations, as a result of the escalating trade war.
“If tariffs are imposed on those aircraft, there’s every likelihood we may delay the delivery,” O’Leary told the Financial Times.
He noted Ryanair doesn’t urgently need the next batch of 737 MAX aircraft slated to arrive from August: “We might delay them and hope that common sense will prevail.”
O’Leary pointed to an emerging standoff over cost responsibility: “The airlines will say the manufacturer must pay. I’m sure the manufacturer will insist the airline pays.”
Industry leaders are grappling with a fragmented global supply chain complicated by 10% import duties on aircraft and 25% levies on essential inputs like steel and aluminium.
Ryanair’s aggressive expansion strategy hinges heavily on the delivery of new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which form the backbone of its fleet modernisation plan.
The airline has ordered hundreds of these fuel-efficient aircraft to boost capacity, cut operating costs, and support growth into new markets across Europe.
With summer travel demand proving to be strong, these aircraft are crucial for meeting passenger volume and maintaining Ryanair’s position as Europe’s largest low-cost carrier.
Any disruption to the delivery timeline risks straining operations during peak periods and could force the airline to adjust its flight schedules or use older, less efficient planes.
Though O’Leary said the airline doesn’t need the incoming MAX aircraft urgently until spring 2026, postponing deliveries would come with operational consequences.
